Feature Friday: The Mompreneur

Happy New Year! I hope the start of 2018 has treated you well. I find myself already midway through January, and it’s already been a great start. I’m excited to bring you the first “Feature Friday” of the year, which was written by guest writer Nyvia Weathersby. Check out her last guest post: Feature Friday: Atlanta Powerhouse Talks Love and Career Balance.

This “Feature Friday” showcases mom and business owner, Rosalin Coleman. In between providing for her family and serving her community, this “mompreneur” strives to promote inclusivity in the “Beauty Supply” world and spotlights other local businesses while doing it. Keep reading to see how she does it!

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mom·pre·neur

noun

a woman who sets up and runs her own business in addition to caring for her young child or children.

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Have you ever walked into an ethnic beauty supply store only to realize the only thing “ethnic” about it was the hair for sale and you? Growing up in East Pasadena, my family had to drive miles to the Black-owned beauty supply store to get the products we so desperately knew would work for our curls and kinks. Not only that, we knew the owners would help us — and I mean really help us.

From my hair type to the latest products that would grow my edges back, these ladies (and men) knew it all. I didn’t know  their struggle or what adversity they had to overcome to blossom as one of the best Black-owned beauty supply chains, then. I wasn’t aware of the social strains that molded them into powerhouses, either. Now that I’m an adult, I have so much appreciation for beauty supply chains that, with consistent aggression, aimed to show us that beauty comes in all products, communities, hair types, and shades.

VIP House of Hair & Beauty, for example, reminds me of that beauty supply chain we used to travel miles to patronize when I was a kid. Those child-like emotions revitalized themselves as soon as I walked into VIP, which is located in Lancaster, CA. Owner Rosalin Coleman (below) calls her customers sisters and brothers. She doesn’t quit until you have everything you need. Family-owned, Black-owned, and full of ambition, VIP House of Hair & Beauty has become a staple in the Los Angeles/Antelope Valley community` area. We sat down with Coleman to get a better glimpse into her world, her challenges, and her inspiration.

How did you get started in the hair/beauty industry?

Rosalin Coleman: I was selling bundles from my car and at my kitchen table. I would travel to salons in the community and hand out business cards. I began delivering the salons demand products and building relationships with them.

As a woman, did you face any resistance starting your career?

RC: My family had healthy concerns about my ability to balance both business and family obligations. Separate from that, being a woman has probably opened doors for me in this industry. I’ve always surrounded myself with good people who believe in me and who are encouraging. For me and by God’s grace, building VIP has been smooth. When I encounter problems I usually consult the wise owls in my life to help me think things through before making difficult decisions.

How did VIP Hair come about?

RC: I was anticipating a layoff at the company I worked for at the time and because of that I began studying for an MBA. In a marketing class the idea came to me to open a beauty supply store, so I began saving any overages from loan and scholarship payouts. With those dollars, I would purchase products and sell them and put all money earned back into the startup.

How much of you is put into your business?

RC: One hundred percent of me is put into my business. VIP Beauty Supply has the personality of me written all over it. From the crown on the signage, the art on the walls of the braid studio, the level of service being offered, to the gospel music we play on Sundays, it’s all of me.

VIP is about showing women that it’s OK to feel and look beautiful. We do our best to uplift the community and spread a family-oriented appreciation for everyone [who] steps foot through our doors.

What would you tell your younger self?

RC: Good question! I would tell my younger self that nothing happens by chance. I am certain that encounters are set for a divine reason and purpose. I’d tell my younger self to always nurture and pursue your passions. When things don’t go the way planned, dig in a little harder and continue with forward momentum. I’d encourage my younger self to set goals and build networks in the field I want to grow in.

What do you look forward to with your business?

RC: I look forward to waking up each day and serving the community I do business in. I really love my customers. I think we are beautiful people. I love the children, I love watching them run through my store and finding items that look like them. I look forward to putting a smile on that mom’s or grandma’s face when she discovers our location, options, prices, and affordable services. I love spotlighting other local small businesses in my store to help them get started.

How did you manage building an empire and building yourself?

RC: I still don’t view my business as an empire. I like to remain humble and teachable. I still see myself as the humble chick who sold bundles from her kitchen table and car. I have a strong ability to execute what I am told. I have a large degree of respect and trust of those in my circle. I build responsible and trusting relationships, and I am responsible with vendors and distributors. I stay loyal to those who have helped me along the way. I study my trade because I love it. I’m always looking for what’s cool, new, and cutting edge. I realize that service and options matter and being able to educate and sell those incentives gives us the ability to build strong.

If you find yourself in the Lancaster area, be sure to stop by and check out VIP House of Hair and Beauty Supply

44245 10th St W #104, Lancaster, CA 93534

Be sure to follow @VIPHouseofhair on Instagram to stay updated!

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December Blues

Jacket: Thrifted

Jeans: Forever 21 MEN

Boots: Carolina

Denim jackets have definitely been a staple for me these past few months. Between working long hours and a uniformed job, it’s been difficult to cultivate a style: not to mention, I might just be getting lazy when it comes to getting dressed. Nonetheless, throwing on one of my many jean jackets has been the spice of my life. (sad I know lol).

Before taking a major leap and moving to Oakland, I gave away a lot of my clothes and items in order to travel lighter. The old me had a tendency to hoard unnecessary things “just in case”, whether it be clothes, papers, trinkets etc… Over the past few years, I’ve been able to easily detach from a lot of material things. It’s fun until you get to the point where you don’t want to wear anything that you have lol. Fortunately, that’t where thrifting comes in. There’s nothing a little $20 splurge to get you back on track!

I found this jacket for $7 at an “Out of the Closet” thrift store near me. The pants were bought a few years ago from the Forever 21-Men’s section. As for the Carolina hiking boots, these are by far one of my favorite. I literally use them for a good hike and/or a good outfit. Ever needed a comfy boot suggestion… Carolina’s are the way to go!

Feature Friday: Atlanta Powerhouse Talks Love And Career Balance

Renewed love at the Biltmore

Article and Interview by Nyvia Weathersby

As women, we pride ourselves in being the queen of Balance. We do a little shopping, a little business, a little love making, a little cooking, and a little us time. What is becoming a sore popularity is how many business women find themselves wanting to pursue balance yet not having fulfilled roles to do so. What do I mean?

In 2012 over 80,000 professional women were quoted as “single”. Let me just note, there is nothing wrong with being single, as long as you want to be.

However, stepping out of single-hood& into a relationship can be an adjustment for any superwoman. We turned to Business and Entertainment professional, Glenda Williams for advice on how to maintain a healthy business and family life. Being married for over 30 years and one of the biggest Philanthropist and Producers in Georgia, we took ear to Mrs. Williams’s advice.

Having a strong, educated background and career, did you ever think that black love wasn’t for you?

GW: The challenge of being in a relationship was realizing that it was an actual partnership. I went into the relationship feeling independent where I didn’t “need” anyone. I married my husband Michael because I couldn’t be without him, not because I was co-dependent. Learning to depend on my partner was a challenge. I had to learn to submit and be vulnerable and trust him to lead me.

How did you find time for love, family and going after your goals?

GW: Dividing time between every family member is a hard task. It’s needed to remain happy in family life. If one area is lacking, everything is off balance. And balance varies day-to-day. I learned to prioritize my scheduling and also make sure I’m giving myself the time and energy I need. Most importantly, you must be OK with change. At any given time, life can alter. Curve balls come and go but I learned not to let those moments control my emotions or my end goal.

With a vow renewal ceremony just right around the corner, Glenda Williams has mastered the art of family, business, and relationships.  Give her 200 all-star guests, an all-white ceremony and the man she loves to meet her down the aisle at the well-renowned Biltmore hotel and Ms.Glenda is all set.

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New Music Monday 8/28: Farewell Summer

Wow, can you believe Summer is already coming to an end?! I must say, I spent the whole summer getting things in order and my mind together, so Fall is going to be LIT. Any who, i’m bringing you all of the end of Summer vibes in this playlist. From saying farewell to all of the friends you never got to hang with, to setting the mood for “cuffing season”, there’s something for everyone.

You know what to do, hit shuffle, press play & vibe your way into a new season!
 

Plaid & Leather

Well hello there, remember me? I know, I know, what is consistency right? I’m working on, things have been a bit crazy, and well… let’s just say my mojo is low. I’ve been lacking the motivation to not only blog, but to REALLY get dressed. Jeans and a black tank have been my go-to. I forgot how much of an attitude adjustment can be made when you decide to just get dressed, even if it’s to go to the local grocery store. That’s exactly what happened with this outfit. (minus the store lol)

Do you ever have those items that you’ve harbored forever but never really figure out how to wear? Yeah, that’s exactly what this leather is for me. I found it about 3 years ago at a thrift store for $9, if I remember correctly. Now, why I chose to wear it on a 98 degree weather kind of day, let’s just say i’m a true fire sign. (Aries) Although the day ended up scorching (and I ended up changing into a jean mini), I needed my cute little plaid jacket while out & about earlier that morning. I snagged this cutie from leftovers of a clothing swap hosted by a friend of mine. 

You know me, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”

New Music Monday 7/3

Back to make your Monday’s suck less! Just kidding, I happen to love the start of the week. If you haven’t noticed, the #NMM playlist will be posted bi-weekly, so I can play catch up with my life. That means you have 30 of the hottest releases from the past couple of weeks, give or take a few lost gems, to groove to. There’s a couple of new drops from Reezy with “Draped” and Demrick with “Let it Burn” ft Dizzy Wright & Euroz from the latest “Still Movin Monday”series. You can catch a dope West to East Coast collab with Berner and Styles P on “Vibes”. Not to forget new releases from Tyler, the Creator, Vince Staples, Amine, Calvin Harris, and so much more! You know what to do…hit shuffle, press play and vibe out.

 

Feature Friday: Get To Know MicahTron

In honor of this weekends annual “San Francisco Pride” celebration, it was only right that I introduce you to SF-native & multifaceted artist ‘Micahtron”. While she creates club friendly, bass thumping tracks that make you want to dance, she’s balances it out with her social/politically conscious lyricism. 

From playing at small clubs, rocking out on main stages at Pride, and taking Europe by storm; it’s safe to say Micahtron is definitely making a name for herself. Simultaneously dropping her first EP “Haven” along with a mixtape “Mood” earlier this year, Micah has been riding the residual waves of her recent splash. From hosting her own parties, performing at huge events like Austin’s “SXSW” and the upcoming “SF Pride” celebration, you can bet your money that this hard-working bad ass has no plans on slowing down anytime soon.

Keep reading for more about this talented, independent & International Queer artist.

You’re pretty much a “one-stop-shop”.-Produce, Engineer, Write etc…

What caught your attention first? What made you expand?Can you describe what type of music you make for those that are new to you?

• I would say it was all organic, and in a way I was unconsciously learning all of those things at once. I fell in love with music at a young age, and by the time I turned 13 in 2000. I was recording my own mixes on cassette tapes. My mother bought me a karaoke machine, and I would download beats from online onto CDs. Then I’d put the CD into the Karaoke machine and freestyle over the beats and record it all onto cassette. As time and technology grew, I grew musically. Learning all three elements of music but focusing solely on writing and recording. I didn’t know many people with studio access so I had to learn to be my own producer and engineer. I would describe my music as a Hip-Hop Hybrid, I grew up listening to so many different genres and I think that shows in my music, but it is no doubt Hip-Hop rooted! 

The past few years, you’ve been putting in major work.
-European Tour: Berlin, Australia, etc  

How did you end up in Europe?

• In 2014, I was booked to perform at a women’s festival in Italy that got cancelled on short notice, but i decided to take the trip anyway. The day I flew out I got an offer to open for The Internet in Berlin which was the city I was flying into, to then travel to Italy. From that 9 day trip I met some great artists and people who immediately encouraged me to come back to visit. So months later I found myself quitting my day job to follow up on some show opportunities back in Berlin. What was supposed to be a months trip turned into 6 months, allowing me to play a number of shows in Germany and surrounding countries before I was set to play in Australia on NYE 2015. Quitting my job at that time was the best decision for me and it allowed me to open up so many doors! I will be heading back to play some shows in Berlin this April and Australia again later this year! 

Decision to go independent.
-Importance of protecting the integrity of your craft

• While under contract with my management I’m still a independent artist. I’ve never been signed to a label, and have never had that sort of backing. So releasing my music by myself with no help is first nature for me. I had been waiting for help and opportunities that Never came so I decided fuck it I need to put this music out! Which allows me to move forward and create more new music. 

You’ve been featured in many publications such as East Bay Express, SF Gate & more. You display such a sex positive, confident queer, politically sound ‘Jill of all-trades’.

Could you elaborate of the importance of breaking free of the ‘norms’ and what a “Lesbian/Rapper” etc should look like.

• I’m one for encouraging others to live their lives without regards for anyones opinions and feelings. You only have one life, why spend that time hiding who you really are and who or what you love. If you are a homosexual Musician, say that and share you experiences! No mater who rejects your identity or sound, there is always a crowd that will love you and relate to your lyrics. No matter what the content, people will relate. And being open and honest about who you are is always best. I don’t think it should look like anything other than what is within. If you not true to you than your music won’t be either. As artists we have the platform to stand up and speak for those who are afraid to, and that’s what we all should be doing. 

What does it mean to be YOU. Why is it important to use your voice and have it heard.

• Having that open identity means everything to me, it’s allowed me to life without caring what people think of me, and it has allowed me to channel that into music. 

I know were both big on thrifting and flea markets; they truly help me uphold my own unique style.

How would you describe your style and do you have any influences or people of whom style you also like.(Importance of originality?)

I would say my style is a mix between the old and the new. I’ve been a vintage head for over 10 years now, and have collected so many pieces that remind me of my childhood! I’m heavy on vintage sports wear, jerseys of all sports. Some of my favorite ball players actually influenced my style along with a lot of my favorite artists growing up. People like TLC, Queen Latifah, Spike Lee, Michael Jordan, Dione Saunders. Their style in the 90s is probably what my style looks like today. Lol. But what strikes me most about vintage clothing is originality, some items I have were only released once and never made again! But also I love knowing that the chances of someone wearing the same thing as me is slim to none. Its priceless.

It’s so easy to get over stimulated by all of the outside influences and lose sight of your authentic desire. I always ask thriving creatives, “what are 2 or 3 methods/things that keep you motivated and in alignment with your big picture?

• Past, present and future. I always look at things in terms of what my life has already been. I was born into a struggling and sometimes homeless family. I made a way for myself simply by teaching myself more about the world and setting goals to get out and see that world, that is my present. And what I visualize as my future, is almost a fantasy. But if I continue to set goals, stay motivated, accept failure, and always thrive for better. I could be there, and I will get there. Because all fantasies are but a mere projection of the life you have worked so hard for, and the life you feel you deserve. Right? 

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